I was using my sewing machine when there was a loud cracking noise-the needle had broken and I replaced it but now the machine won't work. When I press the pedal I can hear the motor whirring but the needle doesn't move. I've checked the bobbin winder and its in the correct position- what else could it be?

Check the hook/shuttle to see if it is damaged
or check the race, the metal track that the shuttle/hook glides in there may be something jammed into the race
be very careful trying to remove a broken needle as you may further damage the race

Sometimes both symptoms are a result of a bent, dull, or damaged needle. Try installing a brand new needle.

If it is still not picking up the bobbin thread and making a noise, take it for service. It most likely has a needle/hook timing issue and the noise could be the needle making contact with the needleplate or in the bobbin area. Continued use could cause the needle to break and flying pieces of needle, in most cases, are not a good thing.

...

Wife says it will likely have to be repaired by a machine specialist in your area. Sometimes when that happens, the time gets off and needs to be repaired. It works when you turn it because your going much slower than the speed the foot pedal goes.

Depends on the machine. See: http://sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Repair/Sewing%20Machine%20Hook%20Timing.htm However, most machines that owners think are "out of time" are dirty, misthreaded, or the needle is damaged, installed backwards or the wrong type for the job. Generally the need for timing is preceded by loud noises, broken needles, and lots of cussing.

when the needle broke it's very possible that it knocked the needle bar out of time, & needs to be taken to a sewing machine shop to be retimed

Sewing machines will get out of time, often as a result of broken needle. Search for sewing machine timing or take it for service, otherwise it will simply continue to break needles and possibly damage the machine.

Have you taken your throat plate off and cleaned that out? You have to take a stubby short screwdriver and remove the throat plate. Sometimes, lint and cloth build up in there and it looks like felt almost. I was surprised when mine had it, I always followed the standard way of cleaning and lubricating until my friend told me about this. I was shocked, to say the least, that she was right. And my machine quieted right down. Hope this solves your problem

Singer sewing machine needle does not go directly down into opening of foot, it hits the back plate of foot. how can i align it.

sounds like something is broken. best to get it checked out. take to the sewing machine doctor.

Could you let us know which machine this is.....

In the meantime....the damaged bobbin is not good, replace it/them........if you have a top loading drop-in bobbin, check for needle damage on the plastic bobbin case (remove needleplate to access).

If there is evidence of needle strikes, if mild, you could try to use very fine wet & dry emery paper to smooth, if severe, buy a new bobbin case.

There may be a load of lint under and around the bobbin case too, remove and clean up this area. If very dirty, use methylated spitit on cloth or cottonbud (QTip) to remove grime (don't soak)

Bargainbox